Mariners split four-game series versus the Red Sox in Boston

3) The re-emergence of Seager

Kyle Seager is notorious for being a slow starter every season. This is something his manager Scott Servais recently mentioned and the player would probably admit himself.

As such, Seager’s excellent start to the 2021 campaign was a pleasant surprise for all concerned. It was also a necessity, with the majority of the lineup struggling to find form, with the notable exceptions of Mitch Haniger and Ty France.

However, the third baseman had recently been showing signs of reverting to his early-season form of previous years. More specifically, he had managed just two hits and two RBI in his previous nine games heading into the second contest at Fenway Park.

In addition, Seager had struck out 10 times during those nine games. As a result, his batting average had dipped from .342 all the way down to .211.

However, something then clicked and the 2014 All-Star seemed to get back on track on Friday. The Mariners would lose the game 6-5, but he certainly did everything possible to help them win.

Seager finished the night with two hits, four RBI and a run in five at-bats. This included a three-run homer in the top of the ninth, which for once didn’t spark the type of comeback win Mariners fans have become used to this season.

The 33-year-old was even better on Saturday, this time in a winning effort for the ballclub. He had three hits, which resulted in three RBI and two runs.

Seager also came agonizingly close to becoming just the fifth player in franchise history to hit the cycle. Unfortunately, despite two opportunites, he came up short by being unable to hit a home run.

The 2009 third round draft pick discussed what helped his return to form, following Saturday’s game. Speaking to the media, he said:

“I’ve been doing a lot of work in the training room. The trainers have been taking care of me.

“[The hitting coaches] gave me some swing changes, kind of getting my hips working. It has been a process, but it always feels good to get hits and help this team.”

As a result of Seager’s renewed offense, he sits tied for second in the Majors with 19 RBI following Sunday’s slate of games. The signs look good, although nothing will be taken for granted.

Consider that the Charlotte, North Carolina native went 0-for-4 on Sunday, including one strikout. Of course, everyone has bad days at the ‘office’, but it will be interesting to see in the coming games if he really is back.

NEXT: MAKING THEIR CASE FOR MORE PLAYING TIME